Paul Lasike back with Bears after visa issue

Paul Lasike celebrates a touchdown in pre-season while playing for Arizona. Photo / AP

Kiwi Paul Lasike has been given another shot at NFL stardom after he was reinstated to the Chicago Bears practice squad after receiving a visa clearance.

The 25-year-old was required to obtain a new working visa when he joined the Bears after being cut from his previous team, the Arizona Cardinals.

Lasike had performed strongly in pre-season, scoring a touchdown in the Cardinals 22-20 win over the Denver Broncos, but found himself cut from the 53-man roster.

He was given a second chance when the Bears picked him up but needed to update his visa and found himself cut for the past two weeks while he dealt with the issue.

Lasike's return was confirmed when the Bears terminated the contract of running back Bronson Hill.

The Auckland-born, Hamilton-schooled former rugby player took to social media today to express his excitement, saying: "YESSSS!!!!! So happy to be back. #excited #blessed #lucky #happy"

The Bears are yet to register a win after losing their two season opening encounters to the Green Bay Packers (31-23) and Lasike's former side the Cardinals (48-23).

Their next game is against the Seattle Seahawks on September 27.